Agencies that offer help to those in need paying their bills are feeling the heat.
LEXINGTON COUNTY -- What goes up, must come down -- and for Gaston’s Myra Salas -- the law of gravity holds true for how she’s handling her monthly heating costs.
“We noticed it going up, so we set the thermostat at 68 degrees,” said Myra Salas.
Adjusting the temperature has not changed the Salas’ situation. They owe more than $1,000 to SCE&G.
“Come Monday it’s going to be turned off,” says Salas, who has looked for financial assistance to help her pay a mounting electric bill.
Unfortunately, Salas’ story is not unheard of. Lexington Interfaith Community Services is receiving 100 phone calls a day from people just like Salas.
“We have had times when we feel overwhelmed by the need, but this is the greatest I have ever seen and I have been here for 15 years,” said LICS Executive Director Jenny Kennedy.
LICS financial assistance has increased by 341% compared to five years ago. In 2009, the agency spent $222,000 on emergency services and they expect that number to double this year.
LICS is still able to provide to those in need with the help of donations from the community. However, time is not on their side.
“We do have a certain number of appointments and when those are filled, we just ask people to call back the next day,” says Kennedy. "It’s really hard, because people are in such crisis situations right now."
Salas is hoping for a miracle or for warmer weather, whatever comes first.
“It’s just a worry I have everyday,” said Salas.
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